VPNs Demystified: Myths, Realities & Selection

What a VPN Actually Does (and Doesn't Do)

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and a VPN server.

[Your Device] === (Encrypted VPN Tunnel) ===> [VPN Server] ---> [Internet / Target Web Site]

What a VPN Does Do:

1. Hides your real IP address and geographic location from target websites.
2. Encrypts all internet traffic leaving your device, protecting you on untrusted Wi-Fi.
3. Hides the specific websites you visit from your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Myths & What a VPN Does NOT Do:

• ❌ VPNs do not make you anonymous: Websites can still track you via cookies, browser fingerprinting, and logged-in accounts.
• ❌ VPNs do not block malware: Downloading an infected file over a VPN still infects your system.

How to Choose an Ethical VPN

• Look for an Audited No-Logs Policy (verified by independent security firms like PwC or Cure53).
• Avoid free VPNs (they often sell your browsing data or inject ads).
• Look for modern protocols like WireGuard or OpenVPN.